Chainsaws are a modern marvel that turns clearing trees and brush from a lengthy team effort to a simple one-man job. If safely operated, they are extremely efficient, and make the job almost effortless, compared to the axes and two-man crosscut saws of old.
Get The Safety Features You Need
Since chainsaws are a powered hand tool, they can really hurt you if you don’t know how to use them right. For that reason, safety features are one of the most important things to look for in chainsaws, for instance, chain brakes, kickback bars, and automatic oiling systems.
Cordless or Non-Cordless?
It’s important to know whether to buy a cordless chainsaw or one which requires a power source, because only cordless saws are portable enough to be taken away from work areas or deep into the woods, where no power sources exist.
Match Features With Your Experience Level
Ease of use is something that can be critical for a person who’s not extremely experienced with using chainsaws, because it’s a tool which must be controlled at all times to avoid the possibility of accidents. Features like easy chain adjustment, automatic oiling, and low vibration are appealing qualities for the less experienced user.
BLACK+DECKER CS1216 12-Amp Corded Chainsaw
Estimated Price: $90
This BLACK+DECKER CS1216 12-Amp Corded Chainsaw comes equipped with a powerful 12 amp motor, capable of providing all the power needed for the toughest duty, cutting trees and brush wherever needed.
The chain requires no tools for tensioning, and the oiling system is automatic as well, so this chainsaw does a lot of the work of maintenance all by itself. It also has a 16″ low kickback bar and chain, and a clear window for checking oil levels.
BLACK+DECKER LCS1240 40V MAX Lithium Ion Chainsaw
Estimated Price: $150
You can run this BLACK+DECKER LCS1240 Chainsaw until the job is done, with its long-life 40V MAX Lithium Ion battery that keeps it going until you’re ready for a break.
It has a 12″ low kickback bar and chain, with automatic oiling system, and chain adjustments are a breeze with the tool-free tension adjustment system it provides.
Makita UC4051A Electric Chain Saw
Estimated Price: $250
No tools are necessary for this Makita UC4051A Electric Chainsaw, and its rubberized grip allows for secure and comfortable handling when in operation.
The Makita UC4051A has a built-in current limiter which prevents the motor from burning out if the saw should become overloaded. It comes with a large oil reservoir and a clear window for checking on the oil level.
GreenWorks 20312 G-MAX 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Estimated Price: $220
Brushless motor technology helps this GreenWorks Cordless Chainsaw make up to 100 cuts on a single charge, making it one of the most efficient chainsaws on the market.
It delivers up to 30% more torque, while also cutting down on vibration by 70%, which makes it a cut above the average chainsaw, and its chain brake and low kickback chain keep it very safe for the operator.
DEWALT DCCS690M1 40V 4AH Lithium Ion XR Brushless Chainsaw
Estimated Price: $300
A 40V Lithium Ion battery powers this DEWALT Brushless Chainsaw, and an automatic oiling system ensures that it never lacks lubrication.
No tools are needed for adjusting the chain tension or the bar tightening knob to maintain the appropriate bar clamping force. It has a chain brake to protect the chain, and a low kickback Oregon bar and chain for operator safety.
